What Conditions Qualify for Disability in South Carolina? (2024)

If you’re unable to work due to a disability, you may be entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in South Carolina. Our South Carolina Social Security Disability lawyers have devoted their entire practice to securing SSDI benefits for over 35 years – so we understand the challenges involved.

To qualify for SSDI, you must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) that has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death and is so severe that it precludes you from not just your previous work, but any job you could otherwise be qualified for.

The SSA maintains a comprehensive listing of impairments that are generally considered severe enough to qualify as disabled. However, even if your particular condition isn’t explicitly listed, you may still meet the criteria if your symptoms and limitations are medically equivalent in severity to a listed impairment.

Common Conditions That May Qualify for SSDI Benefits in South Carolina

The types of conditions that can potentially qualify for Social Security Disability benefits in South Carolina vary widely. Some major categories include:

Musculoskeletal Disorders

• Back injuries, herniated/degenerative discs
• Spinal stenosis, spondylosis
• Joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis
• Amputation of extremities

Cardiovascular Conditions

• Congestive heart failure
• Ischemic heart disease
• Arrhythmias
• Stroke and related complications

Respiratory Illnesses

• COPD
• Asthma
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Cystic fibrosis

Neurological Issues

• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson’s disease
• Neuropathy
• Seizure disorders

Mental Health Conditions

• Depression, anxiety, PTSD
• Schizophrenia
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Bipolar disorder, other mood disorders

Immune System Diseases

• Lupus
• HIV/AIDS
• Inflammatory bowel diseases

Cancers

• Late-stage cancers
• Cancers with debilitating effects from treatments

No matter your specific diagnosis, to be approved, your impairment(s) must be severe enough to meet or equal one of the listings maintained by the SSA. Your age, education, work history, and ability to adapt to other work also factor into the SSA’s determination.

Medical Evidence Is Needed for Approval

Having ample objective medical evidence is crucial for getting your South Carolina disability claim approved. The more supporting documentation you can provide, the stronger your case will be. Some key records the SSA needs include:

• Clinical notes and examination findings from treating doctors
• Diagnostic imaging like MRIs, CT scans, X-rays
• Results from lab tests and other clinical studies
• Records documenting treatments tried, responses, and side effects
• Assessments of functional limitations and work capabilities
• Notes on reported symptoms like pain, fatigue, concentration issues

Other information that can help bolster your claim includes:

• Detailed work history (job titles, duties performed, skills required)
• Educational background and any specialized training
• Your age and whether you meet a favorable medical-vocational profile
• Descriptions of your typical day and activities you can/cannot perform
• Side effects experienced from medications or other treatment

Our firm takes a comprehensive approach to gathering and submitting all relevant vocational and medical proof to build the strongest possible claim.

How Our South Carolina Disability Lawyers Can Help

We understand just how frustrating the process of pursuing Social Security Disability Benefits can feel. That’s why, from start to finish, our experienced legal team will be by your side, meticulously guiding you through each phase and fighting to protect your rights.

In-Depth Case Evaluation & Strategy

We begin with an in-depth evaluation of your case during a free, one-on-one consultation with one of our disability attorneys.

This allows us to gain an understanding of your medical condition, symptoms, limitations, work history, and other factors that will impact your qualification for benefits.

We’ll analyze the strengths and weaknesses of your claim, identify potential challenges or missing evidence, and craft a tailored legal strategy.

Comprehensive Evidence Gathering

Our lawyers will then work tirelessly to assemble the most compelling case possible. This includes collecting and submitting all relevant medical records, test results, clinical notes, assessments of functional limitations, and more.

We have an extensive network of resources to efficiently obtain this documentation while minimizing any out-of-pocket costs you may face. When appropriate, we’ll take steps like consulting with your physicians to obtain supportive opinions and statements detailing the extent of your impairments.

Vigorous Advocacy & Representation

Once your case is solidly built with medical and vocational evidence, our disability attorneys will be your advocates throughout the application and appeal process.

We know how to effectively present your case, forcefully counter any pushback from the SSA, and uphold your rights and interests at every turn – be it at the initial level, during hearings before administrative law judges, or even potential federal appeals.

Get Started With a Free Case Evaluation

If you’re struggling with a severe, long-term impairment that is impacting your ability to work, you owe it to yourself to explore your options for SSDI benefits. However, the disability system can be incredibly complex.

The South Carolina disability lawyers at Pilzer Klein have over three decades of experience successfully helping claimants all across South Carolina get the benefits they need and deserve. Let us put that experience to work for you as well.

Contact us today to request a free, no-obligation case review. We’ll take the time to listen. Let our team’s collective experience and passion work to your advantage during this often challenging process. We’ll stand firmly in your corner every step of the way.